Question regarding Win 1873 in 44spl

[DarbyFett]

I am on the hunt for a Cimarron 1873 Short Rifle in 44-40. However my favorite shop has a barely used Cimarron 1873 Short Rifle in .44spl for $750. I am trying to google, but google isnt giving me a damn thing! How do the 44spl 1873s run? I was really wanting a 44-40 for period correctness sake though. Power wise how does BP 44spl compare to 44-40?

Thanks

[Abilene]

The ,44 spcl '66 and '73 work very well (I have the '66) and that is an excellent price if it is in good condition.  If you plan to shoot BP, the 44-40 will certainly be better as far as keeping the action clean.  I shoot BP in my .44 Spcl and it works fine but I do have to spritz the carrier once or twice during a match and the carrier area needs considerably more cleaning afterward than 44-40.

[Hell-Er High Water]

I shoot a Uberti M'73 carbine in 44 Special as my main match rifle.  As Abilene says, a spritz of Moosemilk once or twice durning a 5 or 6 stage match keeps it running smooth.

I am using GOEX BP and the Mav-Dutchman, 200 grain Big Lube bullet.

On a 2 day match I don't even clean the barrel until after the second day.

One other thing about the 44 Special chambering is that with a modified carrier from The Smith Shop you can shoot 44 Russian loads in it also.  I do this once in a while just for a change.

Power and accuracy wise, I don't think that there is much, if any, difference between the 44-40 & the 44 Special.

Give it a try, I think that you'll like it.

HHW

[DarbyFett]

Thanks for the replies! If they still have it tomorrow, I think I will put it on layaway

edit: I don't compete, Im more into the living history thing. Also the reason I was asking about the power is I am always looking for a new woods loafing gun.

[Shotgun Franklin]

While the .44 spl can be loaded pretty hot with smokeless powder, the toggle link rifles can't handle many hot rounds. If you want a woods/trail/hunting gun you might be better served by a '92. If you're just plinking the '73 ought to be fine.

[Deadeye Dick]

I love my 73 in 44-40. I shoot black powder in it and I think it is fine for any knocking about in the woods you might want to do up to and including hunting deer at shorter ranges. If you want mag velocities then go to a rifle with a stronger action. These rifles were originally made to shoot black powder. The smokeless cowboy action powders work, but one must be careful to keep in the cowboy action pressures.
Deadeye Dick